The EIU view

We expect no major threat to political stability in 2019-20, but slow progress on reforms, intra≠-governmental tensions and a lack of jobs are likely to lead to sporadic protests. Real GDP growth will be relatively strong, on the back of a high level of public investment, strong growth in the cotton sector, rising port activity and slightly increasing demand from Nigeria, a key trade partner.

Public-sector strikes suspended
The end of the strikes shows the strength of the state against the powerful public-sector unions. The victory is likely to be short-lived. We expect renewed frictions in the medium term.